19 THINGS I’VE LEARNED BY 19

I’m turning 19 this month and while the thought of that seems terrifying, I’m overall excited about this new year ahead. So far 2016 has been a crazy year of coming to grips with who I am, what I want in life, and how I’m getting there. So, in honor of the new-age endeavor, I’m gonna be sharing things I’ve learned the hard way.

You know when you see older people that forget what day it is and drag on about how time flies? It’s true. It’s weird. You can never get it back. If you’re in a hard place just remember: It wont be for too long.

Be gentle to your mind at all costs. Pamper it like a kitten.

Learn to let go. Of negativity, of your ex’s number, of the one time you raised your hand in class and said the wrong answer and never raised your hand again. Like, ever. Try and forget it.

By living in fear, you are not living at all.

Finding comfort in who you are is the best feeling in the world. (still a work in progress)

Learn how to properly do laundry as early as possible.

Find what you love and stick to it. Even if it’s as weird as talking to yourself in front of a camera.

Take things day by day. Seriously. Don’t try to dive before you’ve learned to swim.

Don’t take too much on at once. You’ll burn yourself out. And no one will appreciate you hardship if your sleep deprived and a hot mess.

It’s gonna be okay. Really. Don’t tell yourself otherwise.

When the time is right, you will know.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. We all need it sometimes.

Knowing your weaknesses will be your greatest strength.

Never stop laughing, smiling, and joking. Find humor in all situations. Like that one time you raced your cousin and your pants fell down in front of everyone. Wasn’t funny then. But hilarious now.

Don’t fall in love with someone who can’t make you laugh. Find your own Uncle Joey.

Don’t apologize about who you are for anyone.

Treat every day like you’re in a music video.

Always take the opportunity to sing your heart out and bust a move when no one is home. It’s a great de-stresser.

Learn to appreciate the little things. Like how you feel when you take your bra of after a long day.